Meningococcal infection cases

According to the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH), there were 14 cases of invasive meningococcal infection in Hong Kong in 2019, i.e. the germs have invaded the blood, brain or spinal cord, while less serious infections are not statutorily notifiable diseases. As the CHP only records reported invasive meningococcal infections, but sometimes the organism may only cause a mild infection and there is no screening for meningococcal B or other serogroups of meningococcal infection, so it is difficult to determine the true number of infections. Meningococcal bacteria are not uncommon and studies have found that up to 35% of healthy adults carry the bacteria in their nasopharynx, making it a source of infection for young children.

Meningococcal infection can cause serious sequelae

Meningococcal bacteria can be transmitted through close contact, and there is a diverse array of serotypes, including A, B, C, W, X, and Y. Of these, type B is the most prevalent in Hong Kong, making up a staggering 50% of all reported cases. Meningitis (MEN-B) is often referred to as a silent killer with symptoms resembling a common cold, making it tough for parents to spot in the early stage. It is often not until the child develops a rash that it is discovered, at which point it may be too late. Meningitis (MEN-B) can progress rapidly and cause devastating consequences, such as brain damage, hearing loss, and limb amputation. One in five patients is likely to suffer from severe sequelae. If the meningococcal bacteria enters the bloodstream, it can cause septicemia, rapidly worsening the condition and potentially leading to death within 24 hours.

Understanding meningococcal vaccine

The early meningococcal vaccine in Hong Kong only covers types A, C, W and Y. It is not effective in preventing cases caused by type B. The meningococcal vaccine type B was not introduced in Hong Kong until 2019 and is not included in the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme. Parents are therefore advised to bring their children to a qualified private clinic to receive the vaccine to boost their immunity against Meningitis (MEN-B) infection.

If your child has not been vaccinated, act now!

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